MOMENTUM June 2020 | Page 19

NIGHT OF SLEEP MATTHEW 4:4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” use of digital devices a few hours before bedtime to prevent insomnia and improve sleep quality. - Avoid exercise before bedtime. Scientists have found a solid correlation between getting sufficient exercise and healthy sleep; however, avoid exercising during the evening because it stimulates the production of hormones that promote wakefulness. - Limit naps to 30 minutes. Sleeping for long hours during the day can falsely signal the brain that no more sleep is needed, which can lead to acute insomnia defined by the National Sleep Foundation as a brief episode of difficulty sleeping. This negatively impacts normal circadian rhythm and healthy sleeping habits. - Limit the intake of stimulants. While it is certainly helpful to avoid stimulants like caffeine and nicotine before bed, it is important to also remember that the effect of these stimulants can last for hours. If possible, avoiding them altogether will better improve sleep quality. Sleep experts advise eating whole foods because of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they contain. Below is a list of nutrients associated with positive sleep outcomes. Magnesium Vitamin C B vitamins Kava Kava Turmeric Ashwagandha Lavender Passion Flower Finally, sugar is a well-known disruptor of sleep. In other words, eliminate as much sugar out of your diet and you will feel better!